Heat give to KidSport

Lucia Boersma of the UBC Okanagan Athletics department hands over a cheque to Cheryl Browne of KidSport BC.

The UBC Okanagan Department of Athletics teamed up with the local chapter of KidSport in one of the more exciting ways to connect and give to the community this season.

In the final home game for the men’s basketball season, the UBC Okanagan Department of Athletics pledged $50 for every three-pointer made by the Heat to KidSport.

Not many could have anticipated what happened. The Heat proceeded to be especially philanthropic with their highest point total of the year in their 93-71 victory over the Thompson Rivers WolfPack. [Game Summary]

The Heat wasted no time in giving to the charity. They hit 7 threes in the game’s first 20 minutes, earning $350 for the charity. For the game the team hit 9 shots from beyond the arc, and presented KidSport with a cheque for $450.

“It was a great opportunity for us to partner with a high profile event like a Heat men’s basketball game,” said KidSport representative Cheryl Browne. “We will put the money donated to a bunch of our great programs. We really appreciate UBC Okanagan and their support.”

Not only were the Heat raising money for a great cause, it was also seniors night and the Heat had two players don the blue and gold for the last time. Posts Simon Pelland (5th year, North Vancouver, BC) and Steve Morrison (4th year, North Vancouver, BC) both enjoyed playing in their final game and helping out KidSport.

"I couldn't be happier. At the end of the first half I started to get a pretty big smile on my face at the way everyone was playing. Definitely every single player on this team contributed to that win,” said Pelland.

"I think it was one of the best team games we've played," chimed in Morrison. "Everyone was playing together, nobody selfish, it was something you enjoy being a part of. It was a great way to go out."

The team effort was evident on the stat sheet as five players hit at least one $50 shot.